Running Goose

We go to Running Goode EVERY TIME we have tickets to the Pantages. I can’t remember when I enjoyed a restaurant so much that I went so often. Although I have loved everything I’ve ever eaten there, my favorites are: the roasted carrots (listed as Farm Vegetable and they are life changing), Gambas appetizer and the Short Ribs entree. The patio is lovely and the service (by the owners?) is always warm and welcoming.

This used to be one of the few places in Hollywood that a local non-tourist actually wanted to go to. I havent been in literally years. We went this week and it was so bizarre. Zero heaters outside in very cold weather, I trying to warm mynhands by the little flame they had out there, the waitress seemed rushed and bothered, the old guy that came out to tell us about supposed specials tossed the water on the table and it splashed all over. At least the food was still like I remember, good. But the service and lack of heaters really was poor form for us.

The place had a good vibe.

Fantastic spot. Incredible interesting food without being pretentious. Peaceful garden area. Delightful family run business.

I don’t leave many reviews, but Running Goose definitely deserves even more love and attention. We weren’t able to visit my family during the holidays, so decided we would make a special trip to California with everyone during my wife and I’s birthday week. We’ve been in LA for a couple of days so far, but our dinner tonight will definitely be a highlight of our trip. We had no expectations going in other than some positive reviews we saw on Google. We absolutely loved the dining experience we received here. The weather outside was very nice, which made the semi-outdoor seating area feel that much more special for us. The environment was cozy and comfortable without being pretentious. Our service was extremely fast and courteous, and the wait staff who served us went above and beyond to put us at ease. They were respectful, charming, and ultimately just made us feel very welcome. Then, we get to the food and we were all blown away by the quality. We ordered the baked Brie, salmon, steak frites, and duck confit and each were able to try each other’s entrees so we could get a full feel for the menu. Everything was so spectacular, the duck in particular is going to be something I dream about for a while. It was perfectly crisp and tender, and avoided the greasiness you often get when ordering a duck entree. Close runner up for me was the steak frites, which was cooked perfectly. We enjoyed everything with a nice red wine, which just elevated the whole meal that much more. Normally we aren’t a dessert family, but after such a great experience, we decided to order the crème Brulee, chocolate pudding, and pavlova. Sometime during the dinner, the wait staff had heard it was my birthday that day and as they brought out the desserts, they brought the pavlova out in the center of the table with a lit candle. I know it’s not anything major, but it just really highlighted for me personally the care and attention that was being put into our entire night. We left with clean plates and high spirits. Not only do I highly recommend this location for anyone visiting, I believe that if I were to visit LA again in the future, I would have to put Running Goose on my list of places to visit. Thank you Running Goose for giving us such a wonderful evening!